Plaque Psoriasis: Managing an Autoimmune Condition, Not Just a Rash

Key takeaways

• Plaque psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that speeds skin cell turnover to just a few days instead of a month.
• It's linked to a meaningfully higher risk of psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome.
• Treatment escalates from topical corticosteroids and vitamin D analogues through phototherapy to systemic biologics.
• It's a lifelong condition managed with ongoing treatment, though long periods of clear skin are achievable.